Tomato and Tarragon Soup

Not necessarily the most seasonal dish, but when it’s pouring rain outside nothing is more comforting than a bowl of soup… and in my case, it’s tomato soup. I know there’s a million ways to make it and it all somewhat results in the same thing, but this is the way I make mine: 4 …

Pickled Asparagus

Here we go with our first pickling date of the season! Asparagus is out in full force and on a pretty solid whim, we decided to stock up and rip into a pickling frenzy. Goal: 12 jars of pickled asparagus. Method: 1. Trim asparagus of woody ends.  Each stalk should be about two inches shorter …

Salted Chocolate Caramel Tart

I made this a lot last fall/winter after we had a delicious one from the Queen of Tarts in Roncesvalles (which has since closed) and I become obsessed with recreating it. I LOVE LOVE LOVE the contrast of the salt with the sweet caramel. Its a great dessert to make ahead of time and I …

Grilled Lamb Chops w/ Garlic Confit and Mint

I recently made this dish at home after searching and talking to a local meat shoppe producer in Paris, Ontario. I picked up One 8-rib Rack of Lamb, brought it home and set about making my dish. I had garlic, oils, wine, and mint at home. Using the recently purchased rack of lamb as my …

Rhubarb Crumble

Keeping in tune with seasonality, I’ve decided to share my rhubarb crumble recipe with the world…. you can make it in individual ramekins or in just one giant deep (pyrex-like) dish. Best served with either a dollop of creme fraiche (make your own by adding 1/2 cup buttermilk to 2 cups of whipping cream and …

Book Review: Les Halles Cookbook

Anthony Bourdain is pretty well known. Unlike some of his contemporaries, he has done a good job of keeping close to his personality. While some other celebrity chefs have poured their efforts into reality shows, toothpaste commercials, prepared foods, gimmicky food appliances and dumbed down chain restaurants, Bourdain has kept his efforts focused on food. …